Sam Dean reports for The Telegraph that Arsenal are plotting a move for Mikel Merino of Real Sociedad, with their interest pre-dating the start of Euro 2024.
The Spain midfielder’s reputation has obviously been enhanced by his performances in Germany, but Arsenal were already looking at the 28-year-old before that.
Dean writes that Merino could represent good value given he’s in the final year of his contract, though the Gunners will face competition for his signature.
The report cites Spanish media claims that Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are interested, with Real Sociedad wanting around £20m for the transfer.
El Desmarque recently reported that everything suggested Merino will turn down a new deal with his current club, effectively forcing them to sell.
Mikel Arteta reportedly really likes Merino, and the player knows what it’s like to play in the Premier League, having done so with Newcastle United. But he would also consider staying in La Liga.
Merino made 45 appearances for Real Sociedad in 2023/24, scoring eight goals and assisting a further four.
As mentioned, he previously played in the Premier League with Newcastle United for a season, making 25 appearances in 2017/18 before moving on to La Liga.
The midfielder was a regular for Spain at Euro 2024, appearing in every game albeit largely off the bench. He had a pivotal impact in the quarter-final against Germany, scoring the winning goal.